Quote#Art
Theories of genius are the peculiar constructions of our own…
Quote byIsaac D'Israeli · 1766–1848
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: The Literary Character, Illustrated by the History of Men of Genius (1795–1822), Ch. IV..
English (original)
Theories of genius are the peculiar constructions of our own philosophical times; ages of genius had passed away, and they left no other record than their works; no preconcerted theory described the workings of the imagination to be without imagination, nor did they venture to teach how to invent invention.
— Isaac D'Israeli
More from Isaac D'Israeli
To bend and prostrate oneself to express sentiments of respect, appears to be a natural motion.
The negroes are lovers of ludicrous actions, and hence all their ceremonies seem farcical.
If the golden gate of preferment is not usually opened to men of real merit, persons of no worth have entered it in a most extraordinary manner.
Whenever we would prepare the mind by a forcible appeal, an opening quotation is a symphony preluding on the chords those tones we are about to harmonize.
Candour is the brightest gem of criticism.
Plagiarists, at least, have the merit of preservation.